PhD Position in Political Science
Join the DIViNE Doctoral Network to research the persistence of political violence in democratic regimes.
Best for:Best for political science researchers with strong quantitative skills and an interest in conflict studies and democratization.
Overview
The University of Amsterdam invites applications for a PhD position within the Horizon MSCA-funded 'Democratic Institutions and Violence Network in Europe' (DIViNE). This project investigates how political violence persists within democracies, focusing on the endogenous processes and institutional dynamics that shape these patterns. The successful candidate will be based at the Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research (AISSR) and will collaborate with a network of researchers across five European institutions. The role involves conducting quantitative and mixed-methods research, participating in network-wide training, and completing a doctoral thesis.
What you'll do
- Conduct independent PhD research on the persistence of political violence in democracies.
- Utilize quantitative analysis, survey experiments, and fieldwork interviews for empirical work.
- Participate in DIViNE network training modules, colloquia, and research workshops.
- Co-author academic publications with project members.
- Contribute to the AISSR research environment and PII seminars.
- Teach Bachelor-level courses for up to 10% of the contract time.
- Assist with administrative tasks related to project events and conferences.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree in political science or a closely related discipline.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: Excellent command of English.
Instruction: English
- Proficiency in quantitative research methods including panel regression and causal inference.
- Experience with statistical programming languages such as Stata or R.
- Ability to conduct independent research and critical analysis.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
- Interest in conducting fieldwork in the Global South.
- Must satisfy MSCA mobility requirements: cannot have resided or worked in the Netherlands for more than 12 months in the 36 months prior to recruitment.
- Must hold a Master's degree by the start of employment.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-11
Submit a single PDF containing a CV, cover letter, two-page research proposal, transcripts, contact details for two references, and a writing sample of up to 10 pages. Applications must be submitted via the online portal.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Research proposal
- Undergraduate and graduate transcripts
- 2 reference contacts
- Writing sample
Contact
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